McCanners of New York: Inkyung Hur
Welcome to 'McCanners of New York', a series that delves into the lives of the talent behind McCann New York's greatest work. Featuring employees across departments and various roles, this series is an exploration of their personal stories, side-hustles, passions and the projects they cherish.
'McCanners of New York' offers a glimpse into the lives of these talented advertisers, showcasing both their professional and personal journeys.
In this edition, we’re getting to know Inkyung Hur, designer.
Q> Why did you decide to pursue a career in advertising?
Inkyung> Advertising is a powerful medium that showcases the culture of a country, region, or its people. As a foreigner, I saw it as a great opportunity to understand different cultures, and I continue to learn through advertising. It’s fascinating to see how messages and strategies are tailored to resonate with local markets, and I find it rewarding to be part of that process. Advertising and culture are deeply intertwined, and that’s what initially attracted me to this field.
Q> What are your hobbies or passions outside of work, and how have they influenced your work in advertising?
Inkyung> I love photography. Recently, I got a new camera, and it’s been amazing how it’s sharpened my perspective on advertising. When working on ad campaigns, I find that my understanding of composition, framing, and colour has grown immensely. Photography, with its focus on capturing moments and emotions, has helped me approach visual storytelling in a more nuanced way, which has been incredibly valuable in my advertising work.
Q> Can you share a project or campaign you're particularly proud of?
Inkyung> The MGM Shoey Bar project is one that stands out. I worked on the logo, typography, and graphics with my team, with a focus on the graphic design and motion aspects. It was an incredible experience to see my creations come to life beyond the computer screen. The entire process reinforced the importance of collaboration and creativity, and it was rewarding to see the project evolve from concept to execution.
Q> What advice would you give to someone aspiring to pursue a career in advertising, especially at a large agency like McCann?
Inkyung> In a large advertising agency, having confidence in presenting and executing your creative ideas is key. It’s important to imagine how your ideas will come to life and bring them to fruition with conviction. Collaboration is also vital—respecting and incorporating different perspectives within a team will only strengthen your work. Advertising isn’t a solitary endeavour, so teamwork and problem-solving together are essential.
Q> What's your favourite area in NYC, and why?
Inkyung> I love the waterfront walkways in Long Island City. The view of Midtown Manhattan’s skyline at night is just stunning. There’s something so peaceful about walking along the water while taking in the vibrant energy of the city in the distance. It’s a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy both the calm and the hustle of the city.
Q> If you could recommend one hidden gem in NYC that not many people know about, what would it be?
Inkyung> I recommend the New York City Bagel & Coffee House near the Ditmars station in Astoria. You must try their blueberry cream cheese with a blueberry bagel—it’s the best brunch in the world! The bagels are always fresh and delicious, and the cosy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for anyone looking for a great local bite. It’s a hidden gem that the locals swear by.
